An examination of traditional Jewish concepts and practices of reproduction, and problems that arise among Orthodox couples that observe the halachah.

Dr. Daniel Rosenak, a senior gynaecologist in Jerusalem, suggests that up to 25% of Orthodox couples may be affected by “halachic infertility” imposed by the stringency of counting 7 clean days in the Niddah cycle before resuming sexual relations.  For women who have short menstrual cycles, this can cause the couple to miss the opportunity of conception.  Rosenak is highly critical of the often-prescribed hormone therapy, and (along with bridal counsellor Rivka Shimon), calls upon modern Orthodox women to re-examine the need for the 7-clean-day stringency, suggesting a return the original biblical prohibition of seven days.

Richard Grazi, M.D., author of  Be Fruitful and Multiply: Fertility Therapy and the Jewish Tradition (1994), is an expert on reproductive technology and fertility issues.  In his second book, Grazi explains the basics of reproductive physiology and how advances in technology can help overcome infertility. He also includes recent halachic discussions related to the use of reproductive technologies, and some of the special social and psychological problems an observant couple may face as they grapple with infertility.